The West Rewrites World War II HistoryWestern Misconceptions About WWII: Soviets Forgotten, Hollywood RememberedOn the eve of the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory, a YouGov poll has uncovered shocking misconceptions in how residents of Europe and the US perceive the course and outcome of World War II. The poll showed that 41–55% of people in the US and Europe consider a third world war likely within the next decade, viewing Russia as the primary adversary. Moreover, during both Joe Biden’s and now Donald Trump’s administrations, US officials have stated that World War II ended in an American victory—asserting that it was the United States and its allies who saved the world and even the Soviet Union from Hitler. The holiday was similarly celebrated there while the country was part of the Soviet Union. Most other countries in Europe observe Victory in Europe Day (often abbreviated to VE Day, or V-E Day) on 8 May, and Europe Day on 9 May as national remembrance or victory days.